A successful Angus community project that uses football to help troubled young people turn their life around, could be set to expand.
Football For Change (FFC) was established by Lee Crosby of Arbroath’s CAFE Project and members of the town’s local community last summer.
The scheme uses football as a tool to engage with young people, with the aim of addressing anti-social behaviour and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Just six months after it kicked-off, the initiative is receiving recognition, and participants were recently asked to attend The Arbroath and Area Partnership to talk about their experiences.
As a result, Kevin Barthorpe from The Timmergreens Action Group requested an investigation into the possibility of replicating the success in the west end of the town.
Mr Crosby said, “I think the most important aspect is that the community has been involved at the very start of the process.
“Consultation with young people established that priority should be given to those aged 16 and over.
“People in around this age (group) have indicated that the current economic climate is having a negative impact on confidence and self esteem.”
He added, “When young people were asked how they spent their evenings, many said that they played computer games because there was not much else going on that they were interested in.”
The FFC project attracts 25-30 young people from across Angus. Participants develop social and interpersonal skills through working in a team environment, with some already showing improvements in their mental well-being.
Circuit training has been incorporated to develop health improvements which are measured through a variety of fitness tests, but above all the weekly initiative provides a sense of structure and something to look forward to.
Participant Scott Ohren said he uses FFC to spend “quality time” with his son.
“It’s great, we come here to have a game of football and we both really enjoy it. My son is only 13 and the project has given him the opportunity to do a Youth Achievement Award.
“I think Lee is looking to get him to do some volunteering as well.”
Community police officer Barry Cochlan said, “This has been good for the local community.
“Young people are coming together in a positive way and using their time constructively. It also provides them with an alternative to life on the streets.”
The CAFE project provides a one-stop shop for leisure, culture, health, education and employment services and outdoor activities the under-25s.
In addition, many groups use its accommodation.
Whelan Solicitors has donated sports equipment in recognition of the positive impact the FFC is having on young people.